Nagaland’s Ao tribe celebrates Tsungremong festival

LONGSA VILLAGE - Of the 14 tribes in Nagaland, each has its unique culture and tradition. Ao Nagas happens to be one of them that has successfully preserved its age-old traditions.

Every year in August, they celebrate Tsungremong, the ‘festival of blessing’ in Longsa Village. It’s an occasion that provides a window to their culture.

Located in Mokokchung district, the Longsa village came alive with the celebrations of Tsungremong festival this year too.

Tsungremong or, a festival of blessings drew a large number of villagers even from neighbouring villages under Tuensang and Zunheboto.

Tsungremong, first celebrated 65 years ago, is one of the biggest festivals of Ao community in which villagers express gratitude and seek blessings of the almighty.

“This festival is celebrated to pray the God Almighty and seek His blessings for good harvest and happy life,” said Alemtemshi Jamir, a dignitary at this occasion.

Cultural troupes from neighbouring villages such as Surumi, Litsami and Yehemi participated in the festivities marking the age-old cordial relationship that exists among the villages.

Dressed in traditional attires, young boys and girls of different Naga tribes performed traditional dances and sang folk songs.

“We are from Longsa village inhabited by Sangedam and Sema tribes. Though this festival is of Ao tribe, but to maintain our age-old cordial relationship we do participate in the festival. We want other tribes of Nagaland to join the celebrations for the unity and peace in the state,” said K Nokmerenba, a participant.

The villagers here believe that festivals build bridges and create harmony among them and such traditions need to be preserved for posterity. By Peter Chachei (ANI)